Virginia Elizabeth Hall, born Virginia Elizabeth McDaniel to James Oscar McDaniel and Lillian Louisa McDaniel, began her life's journey.
She pursued higher education at Marshall University, where she laid the foundation for her future endeavors. Additionally, she graduated from the prestigious John Powers School of Modeling in New York City, marking a significant milestone in her career.
Following her stint as a modeling instructor, Virginia transitioned into the world of news media, appearing in television and radio commercials, and working in the display advertising department of The Martinsville Bulletin. Her remarkable tenure of 26 years with the newspaper was highlighted by her column, "Around Town with Virginia," which she wrote for most of those years.
A dedicated advocate for the Democratic Party, Virginia made history by becoming the first woman chairman of the City Democratic Party. Her contributions to the party did not go unnoticed, and she continued to serve on the City Democratic Executive Committee for 25 years.
Virginia's impressive list of achievements also includes being the first woman president of the Retail Merchants Association of Martinsville and Henry County, as well as the first woman appointed to the Martinsville Planning Commission in 1979.
Her community involvement was vast and diverse, with her supporting the Salvation Army, Cancer Crusade, Cerebral Palsy fund drive, hospital auxiliary, Business Women's Association, and the Patrick Henry Orphanage in Brookneal. Furthermore, she organized the annual Christmas Parade for several years and maintained membership in First Presbyterian Church, Forest Park Country Club, and the Vita Cum Libra Book Club.
Virginia also served on the board of directors of her alma mater, Marshall University, from 1986 to 1992.
In her personal life, Virginia was married to Elmo Rush Hall, Jr. in 1939, and after his passing in 1983, she married John Walker Stanley, Sr. in 1987, remaining married until his death.
